Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners – District Two

Published August 2, 2012 at 9:37 am

The Three Rivers Park District Board of Commissioners District 2 seat primary race is between Jennifer DeJournett, Richard Theisen and incumbent Marilynn Corcoran. The two candidates who receive the most votes in the primary will advance to the general election Nov. 6. District two includes Brooklyn Park (except precincts W1-O and W1 –R) Champlin, Dayton, Maple Grove and Osseo.

Marilynn Corcoran

Address: 13931 Vinewood Lane North, Dayton

Family: Married

Education: Several community college credits but no degree

Occupation: Retired

Years in district: 39 years

Have you run for any other office in the past? If so, list what, when and for how long you served (if applicable): Served on the Dayton City Council from 1982-84 and served as Mayor from 1985-89.

• Why are you running for re-election?

My tenure with Three Rivers Park District has been a very fulfilling and rewarding experience. I have love and respect for the very talented staff that makes Three Rivers great. There are some projects coming up that I would like to be a part of and I believe that I still have much to contribute.

• What differentiates you from the other candidates?

I have extensive community and local government experience with the cities in District Two and outside the District. This has proven to be an asset in helping with collaboration and cooperation when working with communities and other entities, which is key in ensuring the best outcome for all. I have years of experience and lots of Park District history and passion for the park system.

• What are some of the issues facing Three Rivers that you would like to help solve and address?

As economic challenges continue with little light at the end of the tunnel, every level of government must explore ways they can attempt to continue to provide needed and wanted services. Looking at new ways to accomplish our mission will require new organizational tools and will require working better and smarter with fewer resources, all while maintaining that the infrastructure is intact, safe and in good repair.

Water quality is of great concern for many but a priority of the Park District. With so many water bodies, streams and rivers within, nearby and flowing through Park District resources, we are committed to make a difference through initiating Best Management Practices and through education, working with neighbors and agencies. Invasive species of all kinds are very problematic and careful management and planning is essential.

Jennifer DeJournett

Address: 18094 Gladstone Boulevard North, Maple Grove

Family: Married, four children

Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering

Occupation: Structural Engineer

Years in district: 12 years

Years as Commissioner: 19 years

Have you run for any other office in the past? If so, list what, when and for how long you served (if applicable): No

• Why are you running for the Three Rivers Park District two Board of Commissioners seat?

I am running for the Board of Commissioners seat to improve communication between the Board and the community. I also would like to make sure the perspective of our community and park users is heard.

• What differentiates you from the other candidates?

My background as a Structural Engineer would bring a skill set to the Board that currently isn’t being served. There are many engineering improvement projects that the Board authorizes each year. Additionally, my family consists of small children that use the park year round. The perspective of young families and how they use the park system would be a strong addition to the Board.

• What are some of the issues facing Three Rivers that you would like to help solve and address?

Our park system is an asset to our community. If elected to the Three Rivers Board of Commissioners, I will work to make sure our taxpayer dollars are spent prudently so that we can preserve our park system and be responsible with our budget. Additionally, I will work to increase communication with our residents by being accessible, listening to the community and advocating for more transparent park operations.

Richard Theisen

Address: 15244 Territorial Road, Maple Grove

Family: Married, two children

Education: Bachelor’s and master’s degree

Occupation: Curriculum consultant, retired Osseo High School social studies teacher

Years in district: 38 years

Have you run for any other office in the past? If so, list what, when and for how long you served (if applicable): Maple Grove City Council 1988, did not get elected; Three Rivers Park Board 2010, did not get elected

• Why are you running for the Three Rivers Park District two Board of Commissioners seat?

Three Rivers Park District provides a wide range of opportunities for recreation and education for all age groups. I want that legacy to be passed on to the next generation. I also want the taxes and other sources of park financing to be used responsibly. Park user fees should be fair and equitable. Participation in park programs and recreational opportunities should be encourages across all age and income levels.

• What differentiates you from the other candidates?

I would bring my experience as a participant in city government in Maple Grove and my work as a teacher of economics and government at Osseo High School as well as my experience as a homeowner living in District two for the past forty years. Perhaps it’s time for a change; the voters will decide.

• What are some of the issues facing Three Rivers that you would like to help solve and address?

Will the communities Three Rivers Park District serves continue to support and finance the trails, facilities and recreational and educational opportunities Three Rivers offers? Can Three Rivers continue to provide excellent recreational opportunities as park usage continues to increase dramatically? How will Three Rivers adapt and evolve to address the changing interests of the clientele it serves?